Celebrity event planner Mindy Weiss teamed up with HomeGoods to share her need-to-know tips for throwing the perfect summer party.

1. Add color to your dishes.

1. Add color to your dishes.

"I love adding a colored dinner plate to my set of white dishes!" says Mindy. "It doesn’t have to be much—you can freshen up your look by buying just a few new pieces to add to your current set. That little bit of color always surprises my family… and I know when they notice something, it must be a good idea!"

2. Treat yourself to trays.

2. Treat yourself to trays.

"If you are going to be passing out hors d’oeuvres or drinks to your guests, treat yourself to some new colorful trays," says Mindy. "After the party, you can use them in rooms around your home. You can also display beautiful glasses on them on the bar, or place a vase with flowers on a lovely metallic tray in your dining room. When the sun is out I love having trays on my garden tables filled with succulent plants."